Definitions

baptism of fire

NOUN

trying experience

Synonyms

WEAK

hazing initiation martyrdom ordeal rite of passage rude introduction test of courage trial by fire

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Balfe: It was a bit of a baptism of fire.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

Michael Carrick looked to have been handed a baptism of fire with Manchester City and Arsenal dished up in the first two games of his reign.

From Barron's • Jan. 25, 2026

Former midfielder Carrick was installed as boss until the end of the season this week and faces a baptism of fire when Manchester City visit on Saturday.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

It has been a baptism of fire for Scholz, who is known for his cautious public style.

From Washington Post • Jan. 26, 2022

There were no human lives lost; nor any dwellings other than the hotel—for there was a clear space around that fire-trap and there had been no wind—but it was a valid baptism of fire.

From The Preacher of Cedar Mountain A Tale of the Open Country by Seton, Ernest Thompson